Lake Bluff Criterium and Block Party returns for the 8th year.
The Northwestern Medicine Lake Bluff Criterium and Block Party will return on Saturday, July 27 for its 8th year. The day-long event not only brings the excitement of face-paced, professional bike racing to the village but also provides residents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy of summer in Lake Bluff with friends and family.
Event director and longtime competitive cycler Marc Colbert is excited to see to progress that’s been made over the years. “I never would have guessed the event would have this longevity or that I would receive such durable support from Northwestern Medicine and my other terrific sponsors like Knauz Automotive Group, Lake Forest Bank & Trust, and ULINE,” he says.
As Village President Kathy O’Hara put it, “The Criterium is a unique special event for our charming town. It’s highly entertaining and we are so glad we can be the venue for such a world-class sporting event.”
This year, the Criterium features 13 different races including professional men and women, Masters 50+/60+, and juniors. Competitors in the professional men and women’s races hail from more than 30 U.S. states and 15 countries. Racers will compete for more than $7,000 in prize money. The Northwestern Medicine Lake Bluff Criterium is part of the Intelligentsia Cup, a ten-day series of bike races around the Chicago area. This year, the series includes eight criteriums and two road races as well as the Illinois State Road Racing Championships. It has become one of the biggest race series in the country.
“Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is proud to sponsor this world-class cycling event that is filled with family fun and promotes an active and healthy lifestyle for our community.” says Thomas J. McAfee, president of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital
The race course starts at the intersection of Oak Ave and East Scranton Ave in the heart of downtown Lake Bluff. Spectators can watch from along the course or from a Jumbo Tron screen in the Village Green. In addition to the race, the Block Party will provide plentiful opportunities for family fun. Spectators can watch BMX stunt rider Chris Clark showcase his acrobatic skills; enjoy food from six local restaurants and beer from the Lake Bluff Brewing Company; and rock out to live music from 6:30 to 11:00 p.m.
For more information, visit lakebluffcriterium.com.
